Fact Sheet: The Escalating Issue of Senior Hunger and Isolation

The issue of senior hunger and isolation in America is reaching a critical point. The older adult population is increasing at an incredible rate: 1 in 4 Americans is age 60 or older and 12,000 more are turning 60 every day. Today, nearly 13 million¹ seniors worry about having enough food, and older adults of color² are disproportionately affected by food insecurity. Other at-risk groups include seniors who live alone,³ have a disability⁴ and/or are veterans.⁵

Across the country, local Meals on Wheels providers are working tirelessly to create a different reality for these seniors. However, because of insufficient resources, many are left waiting months — sometimes even years — for lifesaving services.

This fact sheet sheds light on the escalating issue of senior hunger and isolation in America, providing insight into the challenges faced by older adults and the growing need for Meals on Wheels services.